Being in the military full-time means having to move — long distances and often.  I have mixed feelings about that aspect of my job.  I like the idea of moving to get to see a new part of the United States or the world — it means new people and new situations.    On the flip side, I hate the idea of having to pack everything up, because it always seem to involve some level of risk — losing things, breaking things, or just straining my back muscles when I pick up that really heavy box.  Luckily, I didn’t have to pack up for the move to Iraq — all I needed was a couple duffel bags and a rucksack (the Army gave me everything I need while I am here and had a travel plan that had proved successful for hundreds of thousands before me).  I can’t say the same for what lies head of us now.

After less than two months here in Baghdad, it is time for our unit to move again.  NO, not Afghanistan.  Instead we are moving our Combined Press Information Center from its current location near the Baghdad Convention Center to a new location on Camp Prosperity, the place where we live.

Although the move is only about 3-4 miles, it is a huge undertaking for our soldiers, the contractors who support us, and others who visit our offices.  Our unit has already begun loading up non-essntial equipment in portable storage boxes (the Army calls them CONEXs) in preparation for the move next month.  Since the CPIC has been here for a few years, it is much like moving out of a house — lots of clutter to sort through and pack.  Little by little, we are resigning ourselves to this daunting but important task.  It’s time for us to leave here and return this piece of property to the Iraqi people and their government.

When we leave here, we will not be wandering nomads inthe desert.  We have a new home that is currently under construction.  It’s a beautiful building that needs only a little TLC to shine — and that polishing has already begun.  I visited there today and the workers are clearing out the makeshift walls, clutter and dust left by its last inhabitants, and beginning to install new internet outlets and other wiring.  Overseeing the project are a team of Army, Navy and Air Force officers.   It was exciting to see the progress.  When it is done, we will post pictures on the blog so you can see our new home. 

Although our soldiers are happy about the opportunity to move to a beautiful, new home, the people who we serve — the international media representatives — are withholding judgement.  For most in the International Zone, change is sometimes looked at skeptically.  Change, even when it is a positive change, means that there are new protocols, new badges, new checkpoints, new traffic routes, new parking spaces, new procedures, and finally, new concerns for personal safety. 

The soldiers of the 314th are aware of their concerns, and we are working behind the scenes to prepare everyone for these changes, reduce the risk for both our soldiers and those we serve, and remind everyone about the good that can come from new places and new experiences. 

I am excited about what lies ahead, but I do hope someone reminds me not to pick up those extra heavy boxes on my way out the door.